If you’re craving something that’s rich, cheesy, and straight from a New Jersey legend, this Mastoris Cheese Bread recipe is a must-try. Known for its sweet, creamy filling wrapped in a buttery, soft dough, it’s a diner favorite that’s won over generations. This article will walk you through how to make it at home, what makes it so special, and how to tweak it for your own kitchen.

From ingredient breakdowns to baking techniques, we’ll cover it all. We’ll also answer some of the most common questions—like whether you can make it gluten-free, the best cheese combos, how to freeze it, and whether it’s best warm or cold. If you love nostalgic baking or are just hunting down that unforgettable cheese bread flavor from Mastoris, you’re in the right spot.

Check out other nostalgic bakes like bread machine kaiser rolls if you’re in the mood to bake up a storm.

What Is Mastoris Cheese Bread?

Origins of the Mastoris Classic Cheese Bread

Back in Bordentown, New Jersey, Mastoris Diner became famous for serving a unique sweet bread that stood out from your average dinner roll. The Mastoris Cheese Bread recipe became iconic for combining rich, fluffy bread with a silky cheese filling that balanced sweet and savory in every bite. Originally offered alongside meals as a complimentary treat, it quickly became something patrons sought out on its own.

Mastoris closed its doors in recent years, but the recipe lives on—thanks to food lovers and baking fans determined to recreate it at home. That blend of nostalgia and flavor makes this cheese bread more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary memory.

How It Differs from a Standard Cheese Danish

At a glance, people often confuse it with a cheese danish. But the difference lies in both structure and taste. A danish uses laminated dough—flaky and buttery, more like pastry. Mastoris cheese bread, on the other hand, is all about soft, enriched dough and a thick layer of sweetened cheese tucked inside.

Key Ingredients for Mastoris Cheese Bread Recipe

Dough Ingredients – Milk, Yeast, Butter, Sugar, Vanilla, Flour

To make an authentic Mastoris Cheese Bread recipe, your dough needs to be soft and slightly sweet with a pillowy texture. That starts with warm milk and active dry yeast. The milk activates the yeast, while the sugar gives it something to feed on—helping your dough rise beautifully.

Butter brings richness, while eggs add moisture and color. A dash of vanilla gives the dough its signature sweetness. Use all-purpose flour for a tender crumb, though bread flour can make it slightly chewier if that’s your thing.

Here’s a simple list to work from:

This dough comes together fast, and once it rises, it’s as smooth and workable as play dough—making it perfect for rolling, shaping, or even braiding.

Cheese Filling Ingredients – Cream Cheese, Powdered Sugar, Egg, Vanilla

The soul of this cheese bread lies in its filling. And the traditional Mastoris Cheese Bread recipe leans heavily on a rich cream cheese base. Sweetened with powdered sugar and balanced with an egg yolk, the filling becomes firm and custard-like once baked—just like you remember.

Some folks love to add ricotta or mascarpone for a lighter bite. But sticking with cream cheese gives you that full-bodied flavor that Mastoris was known for.

If you’re looking for similar rich and creamy dishes, try our cottage cheese bagels that deliver protein-packed comfort with a similar vibe.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

Prepping and Proofing the Dough

Start by warming the milk to about 110°F—warm to the touch, not hot. Stir in a tablespoon of sugar and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy. That’s how you know your yeast is alive and ready to go.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and remaining sugar. Combine this with the yeast mixture and start adding flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. It should be slightly tacky but pull away from the sides of the bowl.

Knead the dough for 6–8 minutes on a floured surface until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for about an hour or until doubled in size.

Preparing the Cheese Filling

While the dough rises, it’s time to whip up that signature filling. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla, and blend until the filling is silky.

The mixture should be spreadable but thick enough not to ooze out when you roll the dough.

Rolling, Braiding or Jelly‑Roll Style Assembly

Once the dough has doubled, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. Spread the cheese filling across the center, leaving a 1-inch border all around.

From here, you’ve got options:

• For the jelly-roll method: Roll it up from the long edge like a log, pinch the seams shut, and place it seam-side down in a greased loaf pan.
• For a braided look: Cut slits along both long sides, then crisscross the strips over the filling to enclose it.

Let it rest again for 30 minutes for a second rise.

Final Rise and Baking Details

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Once your cheese bread has puffed up slightly during the second rise, brush the top with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with a tablespoon of water). This gives that shiny, golden-brown finish.

Bake for 30–40 minutes, depending on your oven and whether you’re using a loaf pan or free-form baking sheet. The top should be golden, and the internal temp should hit 190°F. If it’s browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.

Cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing. If you’re hunting down more cheese-forward comfort bakes, our smoked mac and cheese delivers big on flavor.

Mastoris Cheese Bread Recipe: The Best Homemade Version You’ll Love

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• Author: Jessica
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Yield: 1 large loaf (10–12 slices) 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A sweet, soft yeast bread filled with rich cream cheese, inspired by the classic Mastoris Diner favorite from New Jersey.

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Ingredients

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1 cup warm whole milk

1 packet active dry yeast

1/3 cup granulated sugar

4 tbsp melted butter

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

3 ½ – 4 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp salt

8 oz cream cheese, softened

½ – ¾ cup powdered sugar

1 egg yolk

1 tsp vanilla extract (for filling)

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Instructions

1. Warm the milk and dissolve 1 tbsp sugar. Sprinkle yeast over and let sit until foamy.

2. Whisk melted butter, remaining sugar, eggs, and vanilla in a bowl.

3. Mix with yeast mixture, then gradually add flour and salt until dough forms.

4. Knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth. Let rise in a greased bowl for 1 hour.

5. Beat cream cheese with powdered sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla for filling.

6. Punch down dough, roll into rectangle, and spread cheese filling in center.

7. Roll up jelly-roll style or braid over filling. Place in greased pan.

8. Let rise 30 minutes, brush with egg wash. Preheat oven to 350°F.

9. Bake for 30–40 mins until golden and cooked through. Cool before slicing.

Notes

You can swap in ricotta or mascarpone for part of the cream cheese.

Almond extract adds a nice flavor twist.

Best served slightly warm, but also great chilled.

Freezes well for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Breads, Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 190mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Variations & Adaptations

Almond Extract & Ricotta Tweak for Authenticity

While the original Mastoris Cheese Bread recipe uses a vanilla-scented cream cheese filling, some fans swear by adding a hint of almond extract. It gives the bread a slightly nutty twist without overpowering the sweet cheese base.

Another popular variation includes swapping out part of the cream cheese for ricotta. This lightens the texture and gives the filling a slightly grainier but traditional Italian vibe. Make sure to drain your ricotta well to avoid excess moisture in the bread.

Try this blend if you want to recreate that nostalgic bakery flavor with a bit of extra depth.

Rolling vs Braiding Methods

There’s no single right way to shape your Mastoris-style bread. The classic Mastoris Cheese Bread recipe tends to be rolled up jelly-roll style and baked in a loaf pan. This traps the filling inside and creates a swirl effect when sliced.

But braiding gives it an artisanal bakery feel and shows off the cheese peeking through the top. Both styles bake evenly, but braided loaves tend to have more crispy edges—great if you like a little crunch with your soft center.

If you want something similar in texture but in bite-sized form, check out these pimento cheese stuffed pretzel bites. They’re an awesome snackable twist using cheesy filling and soft bread.

Storage & Freezing Mastoris Cheese Bread

Can I Freeze Mastoris Cheese Bread?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze this delicious bread—and the great news is, the Mastoris Cheese Bread recipe holds up really well in the freezer. In fact, it’s a smart idea if you’re making multiple loaves or prepping ahead for a brunch or holiday meal.

After baking, let the bread cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then again in foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. Label it with the date, and you’re good to go for up to 3 months.

If you’re freezing unbaked loaves, shape the bread, let it do the first rise, then wrap it tightly and freeze before the second rise. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and allow it to rise at room temp before baking as usual.

If you’re into freezer-friendly comfort food, check out this rich and satisfying ground beef and gravy over mashed potatoes—a dinner that stores just as well.

Thawing, Reheating and Shelf Life Advice

When you’re ready to eat your frozen bread, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours. To reheat, pop it into a 300°F oven for about 10–15 minutes. If it’s sliced, you can toast it lightly for a crisp edge and warm filling.

For short-term storage, the Mastoris Cheese Bread recipe keeps well at room temperature for up to 2 days if wrapped tightly. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving to bring back its soft, rich texture.

Use these tips to enjoy your homemade cheese bread fresh every time—even days after baking.

Serving Suggestions & Temperature

Is Mastoris Cheese Bread Served Warm or Cold?

Traditionally, the Mastoris Cheese Bread recipe is best served slightly warm. That gentle heat softens the cheese filling, giving it a creamy texture and bringing out its sweet flavor. A warm slice is often paired with coffee for breakfast or served as a treat after dinner.

However, many people enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge. The cool temperature firms up the filling, making it more like a cheesecake slice nestled in soft bread. It really comes down to preference—and either way, you’re getting a rich, satisfying bite.

For guests or special occasions, warming slices briefly in a toaster oven makes the bread smell freshly baked again, which always impresses.

If you’re into unique warm-and-cold serving ideas, check out our grilled cheese burrito—it balances melty cheese and crispy edges perfectly.

Pairings – Beverages, Meals, Occasions

The beauty of this bread lies in its flexibility. While the Mastoris Cheese Bread recipe is sweet enough to stand alone, it also pairs beautifully with light meals and drinks.

For mornings, serve it with fresh fruit and coffee or a spiced chai. At brunch, it’s a fantastic side dish next to eggs, sausages, or even a salad. In the evening, it works as dessert or a post-dinner indulgence.

Here are a few pairing ideas:

Whether warm or cold, alone or part of a full meal, this bread earns its place at any table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion: Bringing the Iconic Mastoris Cheese Bread Home

There’s something undeniably comforting about recreating the nostalgic flavors of a classic diner favorite. This Mastoris Cheese Bread recipe is more than just a loaf—it’s a warm memory, a crowd-pleaser, and a slice of New Jersey culinary history. Whether you bake it for a holiday brunch, a casual breakfast, or just to relive that first sweet, cheesy bite, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home kitchen.

Don’t be afraid to experiment—make it gluten-free, swap in mascarpone, braid it for a beautiful finish, or freeze a few loaves for later. And if you’re looking to pair it with a fresh drink, our banana coffee makes a surprising but delicious match.

If you enjoyed this recipe, take a look at other comfort-bake classics like spiced pear bread or our cottage cheese banana bread, and keep that oven warm.

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